ABRSM announces that Guy Perricone has been appointed as Chief Executive of ABRSM as from 1 January 2010. Guy Perricone succeeds Richard Morris who will be retiring from this post on 31 December 2009 after 17 years’ service.

Guy Perricone is currently the Managing Director of the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. The ICA is an internationally renowned showcase for the contemporary arts with a programme which includes exhibitions, cinema, music, talks and lectures, education and supporting creative businesses. He has held this post since 2005.

Of his new appointment, Guy Perricone said: ‘I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to be joining ABRSM.  Thanks to the excellent work of Richard Morris and the ABRSM team, I know I am joining a unique and highly successful organisation.  I am greatly looking forward to working with my new colleagues around the world as we take ABRSM into the next stage of its evolution and growth.  Building on the success already achieved, I hope I can bring a range of skills to ABRSM from my background in business and arts management, as well as a firm and passionate belief in the importance of music and music education in our society.’

ABRSM’s Chairman, Lord Sutherland of Houndwood KT, commented: ‘I am delighted to welcome Guy Perricone to the ABRSM community. We are fortunate to have found someone with such wide and relevant background who is completely committed to the ethos and culture of the organisation. We look forward to exploring new horizons with him.’